With their combined efforts, the very first M&E Conference was held on November 21–22, 2024, at Pearlmont Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City. The event brought together more than 50 M&E officers and focal persons from both regional and field offices, all eager to build their skills in evidence-based planning and decision-making.

In his opening remarks, Regional Director Ramel F. Jamen expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the work of M&E officers, calling them the backbone of DSWD’s mission. “M&E officers and focal persons are close to my heart, for they are the strength in ensuring that all DSWD programs are fully implemented and regulated,” he shared. He also highlighted how accurate monitoring and evaluation are vital for shaping effective programs and continuously improving services.

Throughout the event, resource speakers from the Philippine Statistics Authority, National Economic and Development Authority Region 10, and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 10 led sessions on technical writing, gender statistics, and data management, crucial topics for anyone working in M&E.

A standout moment was the presentation of innovative M&E initiatives from different programs. The Sustainable Livelihood Program - Regional Program Management Office earned recognition for its “SLP Project Proposal Tracker,” winning the “Best Initiative” award. Another highlight was the “Kalahi-CIDSS Digital Dashboard,” presented by Mr. Jayjul Delima, which ranked sixth nationwide during the 6th DSWD M&E Conference in Panglao, Bohol.  Additionally, the “4Ps Operational Spot Check Mechanism,” presented by Ms. Nolanie G. Peroch, was recognized for its excellence, ranking eighth nationwide at the same conference.

Encouraged by the success of this first conference, DSWD Field Office X now plans to make the M&E Conference an annual tradition. The goal is clear: to strengthen collaboration, tackle challenges, share best practices, and promote evidence-based planning and decision-making across all programs.

Now in its second year, the Monitoring and Evaluation Conference of DSWD Field Office X stands as a testament to the agency’s unwavering commitment to excellence and service. With great pride, DSWD FO X is dedicated to fully utilizing every available tool and strategy to enhance, monitor, and elevate the implementation of its various programs. This ongoing effort is not just about meeting benchmarks. It’s about fostering a culture of excellence, dedication, and genuine care, especially for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged members of our community. Through this continued initiative, DSWD FO X reaffirms its promise to uplift lives and create positive, lasting change where it is needed most.